CAN SME EXCHANGE REALLY PLAY A VITAL ROLE IN ACCELERATING START-UP GROWTH?

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this research is to understand whether SME Exchange can really play a vital role in accelerating small and medium enterprises (SME’s) and Start-ups growth. Can it create an effective alternative source of funding for Incumbent SME’s who are facing problems of fundraising due to weak debt market and non-availability of public market for small and medium size ventures?. Methodology/Sampling: Structured interview were conducted with cofounders of SME’s and start-ups who have raised capital from SME Exchange or likely to raise capital. Findings: SME’s are finding SME Exchange a cost-effective alternative to raise capital from public market. Bank loan and private equity / Venture capital investments have their own limitation. Practical Implications: SME Exchange can visibly impact the fundraising alternative for SME’s and start-ups and therefore impact the overall growth of SME’s.